Tequila after a horse-and-river ride. This Puerto Vallarta tour pairs you with a horse that fits your comfort level near Hacienda Dona Engracia, then aims for the Mascota River with a chance at a short swim. I like the hands-on, real-country pace. The one catch: the river part depends on conditions, so your route may change if water flow is high or low.

I also really like the food-and-drink payoff at La Dulce Vista. After the ride, you get an artisanal tequila tasting (Blanco, Reposado, Anejo, plus Pink tequila) and then a classic Mexican BBQ lunch with unlimited lemon margaritas. When the guides are in full swing, the day feels warm and personal, and names like Martin, Saul, and Fabrizio pop up a lot for a reason.

One more thing to know upfront: this is a wet-and-sunny day. Bring a swimsuit and water shoes that don’t fall off, plus a hat and sunglasses, because you’ll want to be comfortable if the swim happens and if the heat is doing its thing.

Key points to know before you go

• Horse matching at Hacienda Dona Engracia so you’re put on a horse that fits your ability
• Mascota River riding with a possible short swim if conditions allow
• Tequila tasting at La Dulce Vista featuring Blanco, Reposado, Anejo, and Pink tequila
• Mexican BBQ lunch + unlimited lemon margaritas with options for vegetarian, vegan, and pescatarian diets
• Small group size (max 17) which usually keeps things calmer and easier to manage
• Bring swimsuit, wet shoes, and a towel (towels are not included)

From Marina Vallarta to Hacienda Dona Engracia: how the day starts

The day kicks off back at Av Paseo de la Marina 121 in Marina Vallarta, with private transportation by white bus. The drive to Hacienda Dona Engracia takes about 25 minutes, which is long enough to settle in and short enough that you’re not waiting around for ages.

Once you arrive, you get matched with a horse based on skill level. That matters more than it sounds. A good match helps you relax fast, enjoy the ride, and feel safe even if you’re a first-timer.

Also, the tour is offered in English and keeps the group capped at 17 people. In real life, that usually means fewer bottlenecks when it’s time to mount, get photos, or ask questions.

Horse matching and the ride near the Mascota River

You’ll ride through countryside scenery around the Mascota River area, which is exactly the vibe you’re hoping for when you book this kind of excursion. This isn’t a quick lap around a stable. It’s a countryside outing with time to look around and get that slower pace.

Your guide will also take photos along the way if you want. That’s a nice touch because on horseback, you don’t always get the clean “standing shot” moments you’re used to on tours where you’re walking.

The horses themselves are often described as calm and well trained, and that theme shows up again and again in the feedback. If you’re nervous about riding, that reassurance is worth something.

Still, remember the reality: you’re outdoors, the terrain isn’t a theme park floor, and you’ll spend hours in the heat depending on the season. Bring a mindset of comfortable participation, not a spa-day expectation.

When the swim with the horse happens (and when it doesn’t)

Here’s the deal: you can bring your swimsuit and, if river conditions permit, you may enjoy a short swim with your horse. When it works, people call it magical. When it doesn’t work, the day doesn’t turn into a total bust, but your best “horse-in-water” moment might be replaced by more land riding.

So plan for both possibilities. If currents are too strong or water levels aren’t right, the route can shift toward town paths or side trails. That can mean less of the dramatic river scenery you expected, even if the horses and guides are still doing their best.

Practical packing is key here:

• Wear shoes that stay on your feet and can get wet
• Bring a hat and sunglasses, since sun is a factor
• Use a backpack or small bag so you’re not scrambling when it’s time to change after water

And one important detail: towels are not included. If you’re hoping for a quick post-swim reset, bring your own towel so you’re not stuck improvising.

La Dulce Vista: tequila tasting, Pink tequila, and making salsa

After horseback riding, you head to La Dulce Vista for tequila tasting and lunch. La Dulce Vista is the part of the day that tends to feel like a payoff: poolside lunch energy, more time to relax, and a structured stop that breaks up the riding pace.

The tasting is a highlight for a lot of people. You’ll sample the tour’s own artisanal tequila, including Blanco, Reposado, and Anejo. You also get to try a premium Pink tequila, made in small batches in the city of Tequila.

This tasting isn’t just about drinking. The guides tend to explain what makes each tequila different and help you connect the flavors to the style. If you’re the type who likes learning while you drink, this fits nicely.

You’ll also have a hands-on moment making salsa. That’s one of those activities that feels simple, but it quickly becomes memorable because you’re doing it with fresh ingredients and then eating it right away.

Mexican BBQ lunch and unlimited lemon margaritas

Lunch at La Dulce Vista is traditional Mexican BBQ, with a mix that may include chicken, meat, beans, rice, veggies, salsa molcajete, and quesadillas. There are vegetarian, vegan, and pescatarian options, which is great for mixed groups.

The drinks are also a strong part of the value. You get unlimited lemon margaritas with lunch, plus bottled water. That makes the food stop feel like a full, satisfying meal—not a token snack before you head back.

One small note from the experience details: bottled water is included, but towels are not. So if you plan to swim, your towel decision is on you.

If you’re picky about comfort, also consider that this is still a “day outside” experience. Even with poolside lunch, you’ll likely be tired by the end, especially if you didn’t get a lot of sleep before.

Price and value: what you’re really paying for

At $113.26 per person for about 5 hours, you’re paying for a package: horse time, transportation, lunch, and alcoholic beverages (lemon margaritas). On paper, that sounds straightforward. In real life, it’s better than it looks because you’re not organizing multiple activities yourself.

For example, the tequila tasting is tied to the same outing. You’re not buying a separate cab to a distillery and scheduling another half-day. Same with the BBQ lunch: it’s built into the flow, and the poolside setting at La Dulce Vista makes the stop feel like more than a roadside break.

The day-to-day value depends on conditions, though. If the river swim can’t happen, you still get riding, tequila, and lunch, but you may feel like the “horse-in-water” moment was the main reason you booked. That’s why packing for water is important, even if you might end up doing more land riding.

Who should book this horseback, swim, and tequila mix

This tour suits most travelers, including people who are new to horseback riding. The horse matching and safety instructions are part of why first-timers often feel comfortable. Guides are supportive, and you’ll usually get help getting on and off.

It’s also a good fit if you want a less resort-only day. People describe seeing parts of the area outside the typical tourist bubble, with a countryside ride that feels grounded in daily life.

Consider thinking twice if:

• you can’t handle heat for a few hours
• you hate wet footwear (even if you’re careful, this can be a wet day)
• you have difficulty with getting onto a horse and walking on uneven ground

There’s also a height/weight rule: if you’re over 220 lbs (100 kg), you must be above 5’7″ (170 cm). That’s a real factor for ride comfort and safety.

Tips that make the biggest difference

These are the small things that prevent the most common day-of problems:

Bring the right swim setup. A swimsuit, plus water shoes that won’t slip off, is the difference between relaxed and stressed. If the swim happens, you’ll want to be ready fast.

Pack a change of clothes. People recommend a backpack for wet gear, so you can swap out quickly after you ride and swim.

Don’t skip the hat and sunglasses. Sun shows up early and stays stubborn.

Plan for a longer day than you expect. Even though it’s listed as about 5 hours, the full experience can feel longer because you’re riding, eating, and moving between zones.

Double-check your exact meeting point on maps. There have been cases where rideshares landed people at the wrong spot and it caused stress. Your best move is to set your pin carefully for Av Paseo de la Marina 121.

If you come from a cruise, plan extra walking. Some people report a long walk from the cruise terminal to the meeting area. A taxi can be worth it if you’re short on time or energy.

So should you book Horseback Riding & Swim with Tequila, BBQ & Margaritas?

If your ideal PV day includes countryside horseback riding, a tequila stop that feels like part of the adventure, and lunch that’s more than a formality, then yes, this is a strong pick. The mix of horse time plus tequila plus BBQ plus unlimited margaritas makes it feel like you’re getting a whole afternoon, not just a single activity.

I’d book it especially if:

• you want a small-group vibe (max 17)
• you like learning about tequila while sampling Blanco, Reposado, Anejo, and Pink tequila
• you’re okay with the possibility that the swim depends on conditions

I’d be more cautious if you’re laser-focused on the exact Mascota River swim moment and can’t mentally handle a plan shift due to river conditions. The horses and hosts can still deliver a great day, but water conditions can change what the ride looks like.

FAQ

How long is the horseback riding and tequila tour?

It runs about 5 hours.

Where does the tour start in Puerto Vallarta?

The meeting point is Av Paseo de la Marina 121, Marina Vallarta, 48335 Puerto Vallarta, Jal., Mexico.

Does this tour include transportation?

Yes. Private transportation is provided by white bus.

Is swimming included?

You can bring your swimsuit, and if river conditions permit, you may enjoy a short swim with your horse.

What tequila is included in the tasting?

The tasting includes Blanco, Reposado, Anejo, and a premium Pink tequila.

What’s included with lunch and drinks?

Lunch is included, along with alcoholic beverages in the form of lemon margaritas and bottled water.

Are vegetarian or vegan meals available?

Yes. Vegetarian, vegan, and pescatarian options are available.

What should I bring for the ride?

Bring a swimsuit, a towel, a hat, sunglasses, and water-friendly shoes that won’t easily fall off your feet.

Are there any weight or height restrictions?

If you’re over 220 lbs (100 kg), your height must be above 5’7″ (170 cm).

What happens if weather affects the ride?

The experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.